Three local soldiers are on they way to Iraq to begin their first deployment in the area.  The three left Grand Junction Friday morning from Grand Junction Regional Airport.

Specialists Garrett Gilliam and Jesse Ellis are with the 220th Military Police Company, First Battalion-- based in Denver.  Specialist Juan Vasquez is with the 220 MP Company, 2nd Battalion.

All three men said they will miss the loved ones they have to leave behind, but seem ready for the challenges that await them in Iraq. 

These soldiers are expecting to serve over a year in Iraq during this tour. The flight from Grand Junction to Iraq will take about 14 hours.

March 11 was our regular VAVS meeting at the VA Hospital.  Wendy (REP) and Sheila D (DEP) attended.

March 13, James Park. Legion Post 200 presented a Service Flag to Cindy Deardon at the VA hospital.  SPC Sean Deardon, Army, Rita Parks, Legion Auxiliary and Wendy Hoffman of Grand Valley Blue Star mothers were on hand for the presentation.

March 13 was a homecoming at the airport for SSG Thomas Moore, Army, home on leave.  It was well attended by Blue Star Moms, VFW, Legion and PGR.

March 14th and 15th was our fundraising and item drive at Sam's Club.  Despite the changing weather and the wind we collected a reasonable amount of items and $700 from sales and cash donations.

March 15 Rachel Terlow and Troop 42 donated 115 boxes of Girl Scout cookies for the troops and $57 in cash to help with postage.